Irvine PrEP Services for HIV Prevention

As the leading LGBTQ+ medical clinic in Irvine, Radiant Health Centers is committed to delivering compassionate medical care for those living with HIV. One important preventative treatment we can help with is pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). PrEP is medication used to prevent transmission of HIV, with proven results among high-risk individuals. If you are concerned about HIV exposure and would like to learn more about this treatment option that can help prevent HIV transmission, please contact our team of medical professionals to discuss PrEP.

What Is PrEP?

PrEP is prescription medications that reduce the chances of contracting HIV through sexual contact or the sharing of needles. In fact, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by around 99%. The medication must be taken daily and requires 7-21 days to achieve maximum protection levels. As FDA-approved medications, PrEP can benefit HIV-negative people who seek a greater level of protection to minimize their health risks.

Why Is PrEP Effective?

PrEP involves taking the drugs Truvada or Descovy. When taken daily, the medication levels in your bloodstream are enough to prevent HIV cells from multiplying and spreading throughout the body. If, however, the daily dose is missed, the effectiveness of the drug is significantly reduced. Additionally, pre-exposure prophylaxis medication should be used in conjunction with condoms and HIV testing to further increase protection. Contact Radiant Health Centers for help with at-home testing kits and HIV testing services at our facility.

Who Should Consider Using PrEP?

PrEP is used to prevent the transmission of HIV. Therefore, anyone at risk of contracting the disease should consider the treatment. The following groups fall into the high-risk category.

• An HIV-negative person in a sexual relationship with an HIV-positive person.
• Someone who has sex without condoms with a person who injects drugs.
• Individuals with multiple sexual partners.
• Gay or bisexual men who have sex without using a condom.
• Anyone having sex without condoms with a person at risk for HIV.
• Intravenous drug users who share needles.

Telehealth is proving to be an important service for reaching people who can most benefit from PrEP. Virtual consultations can be used to help people who may have been exposed to HIV get a prescription for this medication. In addition, routine consultations can help maintain the daily routine of medication that prevents HIV transmission.

Telehealth for PrEP will primarily be used for follow-up appointments and prescription refills. Previously, patients would spend more time than necessary managing these steps, but now they can be completed virtually. The speed and convenience the telehealth services provide increases the likelihood that patients will continue with this valuable treatment.

Common Questions About PrEP

Does PrEP cause any side effects?

While most people will experience no side effects from PrEP, some could suffer from nausea, headaches, weight loss, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, stomach cramps and gas or bloating. Any side effects are usually mild and last only a few days.

Do I need to use condoms if I take PrEP?

It is recommended that you continue using condoms along with your PrEP medication. While PrEP can provide 99% protection from HIV, condoms offer additional protection along with a reduced chance of contracting STIs.

Can I get help paying for PrEP?

Radiant Health Centers can help anyone looking to take PrEP. If you do not have insurance, we can assist you. If you have insurance, we will help you navigate your benefits for the best care.

Get PrEP Guidance From Radiant Health Centers

If you are considering using PrEP medication, Radiant Health Centers is here to offer guidance. Our medical professionals provide confidential consultations to individuals in Orange County. Call the medical clinic at (949) 809-5700 to get help today or request an appointment online.